Breaking News

'Football will never forget your smile' - Messi tells Ronaldinho

'Football will never forget your smile' - Messi tells Ronaldinho after the Brazil legend announced his retirement

Argentine superstar, Lionel Messi has posted a heartfelt tribute to
his former Barcelona team-mate Ronaldinho following his retirement from
football.
On Tuesday, Ronaldinho's brother and agent, Roberto Assis, revealed
the Brazilian World Cup winner's retirement after his stellar career.
Following his decision to hang his boots, a host of football stars
sent out heartfelt messages to the 37-year-old Brazilian legend on
social media.
Lionel Messi posted a picture of the pair together at Barcelona sitting down on the pitch.
He wrote: 'As I always said, I learned a lot by your side. I will
always be grateful to you for how easy it was that you did everything to
me when I got to the dressing room.
'I was lucky to share many things with you and I am very happy
because, in addition to a phenomenon with the ball, you are a very great
person and that is the most important thing.
'Even if you decide to leave, football will never forget your smile. All the best, Ronnie.'
The duo played together at the Camp Nou for four years before Ronaldinho departed for AC Milan.
David Beckham, who played with the Brazilian at Milan, also posted a heartwarming message on Instagram.
He said: 'Welcome to retirement my friend ... Pleasure to play with
you , against you and to see someone smile doing something they love.'Fellow
Brazilian Neymar wrote: '@ronaldinho which honours to be part of its
history. I will always remember your joy on the field, you left a legacy
that will hardly be beaten in football ART ... Thank you for everything
you did for FOOTBALL lovers.'Ronaldo, who won the World Cup in 2002
with Ronaldinho as part of a terrorising front-three with Rivaldo as
well, said: 'Dividing the name, the nickname and so many historical
moments with this genius was an honour. It ends now a victorious
trajectory, perpetuating the trail of art and joy in our football.
Thanks.'
Other top stars to pay tribute on the social media platform included Ronaldo Andrea Pirlo and Steven Gerrard among many others.